Multi-Agent Geosimulation of Urban Dynamics within the V-Devs Framework

In recent years, a number of research efforts have focused on presenting solutions for modelling and simulation of urban systems using automata-based models allowing a transition from large scale, aggregate spatial representation in a static equilibrium to much finer scale disaggregate forms where dynamic processes are the primary focus of the simulation. In this paper a conceptual framework for integrating of agent-based models with cellular automata, geographic automata systems and geographic information systems in the context of modelling and simulation of urban systems is proposed. The proposed framework uses Visual Discrete Event System Specification (V-DEVS) that provides integrated modelling and simulation in a virtual interactive simulation environment, in a such way solving the existing problem that multi-agent systems and geographic information systems separately do not provide truly integrative modelling and simulation capabilities.